Thumb, ring and little (DC 5137)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

Diagnostic Code 5137 covers disabilities affecting three specific fingers on one hand: the thumb, ring finger, and little finger. This is a specialized rating code that the VA uses when these particular fingers are injured or impaired together, rather than rating each finger separately. The VA assigns a flat 50% disability rating for this combination of finger impairments, recognizing that losing function in these three fingers significantly impacts your ability to grip, grasp, and perform fine motor tasks with that hand.

Rating levels

  • 60% — If you've lost your thumb, ring, and little fingers on your dominant hand, you receive a 60% rating. On the non-dominant hand the same amputation rates at 50%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.
  • 50% — If you've lost your thumb, ring, and little fingers on your non-dominant hand, you receive a 50% rating. On the dominant hand the same amputation rates at 60%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.